Leaders Vipers Sports Club secured an important away victory after defeating UPDF 2-1 in a closely fought Uganda Premier League encounter at the Bombo Barracks Military Stadium on Wednesday.
The Venoms registered their 14th win of the campaign from 20 matches, a result that helped them maintain firm control at the top of the table while opening a four-point cushion over second-placed Kitara.
Goals from Arafat Usama Kiza and Abdul Karim Watambala proved decisive for the visitors, while promising youngster Enrique Lubwama briefly restored hope for the hosts late in the contest.
Vipers began the match with attacking intent and nearly found an early breakthrough in the third minute. Winger Chukwuma whipped in a dangerous delivery from the left flank, but UPDF defender Da Slyva reacted quickly to head the ball away from danger.
The hosts gradually settled and threatened moments later when Lubwama skipped past left back Enock Luyima, though the midfielder’s hurried cross sailed beyond the intended target.
UPDF continued to push forward and came close again in the 13th minute. Emmanuel Ochen floated a ball into the Vipers penalty area, but the cross was just too high for his teammate to convert.
Despite the home side’s efforts, Vipers remained composed and eventually capitalized on their opportunities to take control of the game.
Lubwama later pulled one back for UPDF with ten minutes remaining, raising hopes of a comeback, but the Venoms held on to secure maximum points.
The defeat was another setback for UPDF, marking their 13th loss of the season. They remain stuck on 13 points and face increasing pressure in the battle to avoid relegation as the league campaign approaches its decisive stages.
